Chapter 2392

Yasmin snorted, but her anger subsided after Ross apologized. He lowered his head, murmuring, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said those things."

"Are you really?" Yasmin raised an eyebrow. "Look me in the eyes."

He met her gaze, and a silent moment passed. Yasmin narrowed her eyes, chuckling. "Ross, your eyes tell me you're insincere." She knew him well; his apology felt more like an attempt to appease her. However, her recent fainting spell had altered her perspective, as had her conversations with Dominic and Fred.

"Ross, you've lived in Hyderland a long time, so I understand the influence," she murmured. "But have you considered that they might be using you?"

Ross stared, incredulous. "Mother, I wasn't born yesterday. I have good judgment." His retort would have been harsher if not for her health. He thought, How can she say such a thing? Does she really think I'm so easily manipulated?

Yasmin sighed. "I know you weren't born yesterday, but you're too sentimental, too easily blinded by emotions. That's one reason I haven't passed the throne to you."

Ross fell silent, surprised by this unexpected topic. He had once longed to be king, but that desire had faded over the years. Perhaps it would only happen when she reached a hundred, or perhaps he would die first. He had a good family; being a prince for life didn't bother him. Now, however, he felt compelled to ask, "Mother, have you successfully avoided manipulation your entire life?"

The queen fell silent, recalling past mistakes. She'd chosen to forget them, deeming them insignificant compared to her accomplishments. Still, Ross's question brought a blush of embarrassment.

"Is that how you speak to me?" Yasmin asked grimly.

Unlike before, Ross conceded, "I'm sorry, Mother. I shouldn't have said that. I'm just saying it might—or might not—be my fault."

She softened slightly, though still upset. Yasmin closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and said, "You look gentle, but you're as stubborn as a mule."

Ross chuckled. "Aren't you the same? An apple doesn't fall far from the tree, does it?"

"Do you know that Hyderland is also conducting this experiment?" she suddenly asked.

Ross was stunned.

"You didn't know, huh?" Yasmin opened her eyes, her gaze knowing.